A true American patriot who served his country for years as a naval aviator. Head of a wonderful family. I was fortunate enough to meet him through his family, and I would say this was a man who loved life, his family and his country. Had the best "sea stories" and was a joy to be around. God bless you, John. And thank you for sharing your spirit with all of us who were lucky to have met you.

J.R. Brown, friend

I had the pleasure and privilege of working with John Yamnicky for 12 years and knew him to be a remarkably considerate, unassuming, helpful, cheerful, optimistic -- in short -- wonderful person. I found this to be especially notable in light of his intelligence, experience and accomplishments -- which would have made a person of less character become arrogant and self-important. The world has lost a shining light.